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Can microdermabrasion make scars worse?

Author

Matthew Barrera

Updated on May 28, 2026

Microdermabrasion isn't a miracle treatment, though, and there are limits to what it can treat. Microdermabrasion won't improve deep acne scars, like boxcar or ice pick scars. 5 It can't be used to flatten hypertrophic or keloid scars, and can actually make them worse in some instances.

Can you use microdermabrasion on scars?

Microdermabrasion is one of several options for scar improvement. With this procedure, your dermatologist or skin care specialist will use a small handheld device to gently remove the outer layer of your skin (epidermis).

Can dermabrasion make scars worse?

Scarring. Dermabrasion that's done too deeply can cause scarring. Steroid medications can be used to soften the appearance of these scars. Other skin reactions.

Does microdermabrasion work on raised scars?

“Microdermabrasion doesn't affect collagen production, which would be the aim in order to 'fill out' scar tissue,” says Kerr. So while the treatment may 'polish' an uneven surface somewhat, results will be minimal. “I wouldn't recommend it for raised scars, either,” says Kerr.

Why does my skin look worse after microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion can sometimes cause breakouts as the bacteria and dirt is drawn from your skin to leave you with brighter, younger looking skin. However, it's very rare for breakouts to occur and for your skin to look worse.

How to Get Rid Rid of Acne Scars Completely!

Can microdermabrasion ruin your skin?

Microdermabrasion is safe and effective for all skin types. The exfoliating crystals are very fine and won't cause damage to your skin. Since microdermabrasion requires no incisions or anesthesia, there's no risk for scarring or infection. Treatment is painless and can take an hour or less.

Why do my pores look bigger after microdermabrasion?

I don't have a scientific answer for you on this; but, in my opinion, it's because the oil and clogging in some people's pores acts as a sort of “spackle” visually. It makes the pores look more level and not as deep. When the microdermabrasion removes that clog, it reveals the pore more.

Can microdermabrasion cause keloids?

Usually, if someone is in their thirties, healthy, and has no history of keloids on the face, then minor procedures like microdermabrasion and glycolic peels done in a dermatologist's office and under their supervision, are safe.

Is microneedling good for scars?

Dermatologists recommend microneedling for scars, discoloration, and fine lines. Some use it to tighten sagging skin or fade stretch marks. This procedure works great for melasma, thermal burns, surgery scars, and acne scars. Unlike microdermabrasion and chemical peeling, it's safer and causes less damage to the skin.

How do you fill in pitted acne scars?

Fillers: Your dermatologist may recommend fillers to treat deep-pitted scars. These fillers fill the scarred tissues and lift them to the level of the surrounding skin. They contain substances such as hyaluronic acid to add volume to the depressed scars with minimal discomfort.

What are the side effects of microdermabrasion?

Common side effects of microdermabrasion include mild tenderness, swelling, and redness. These generally go away within a few hours after treatment. You might be advised to use a moisturizer to minimize dry and flaky skin. Minor bruising may also occur.

What is best treatment for scars?

If you want to try an over-the-counter product, silicone gel or silicone sheets have the best evidence they can help reduce the appearance of scars. For more serious scars like keloids, other treatments like cryotherapy, laser resurfacing, or scar removal surgery may be an option.

What should you not do after microdermabrasion?

AVOID scratching or picking at the treatment area. DO NOT use any harsh chemicals, rub or tan your skin for at least one week following the procedure. Avoid facial waxing, use of depilatory creams, electrolysis, IPL or any other laser procedure for at least two weeks after your treatment.

What's better for acne scars microdermabrasion or microneedling?

Microdermabrasion is used to reduce the appearance of pore size, age spots, acne scars, stretch marks, and fine lines and wrinkles. Similar to microneedling, microdermabrasion can be done at home, but medical microdermabrasion provides better and safer results.

How do you heal a scar on your face?

Methods for improving the appearance of scars include:

  1. Topical treatments, such as vitamin E, cocoa butter cream, silicone gel,onion extract products, and several commercial skin care products like Vaseline and Aquaphor that are sold over the counter may be somewhat effective in helping to heal scars.
  2. Surgery.

Why do my scars look worse after microneedling?

Some at-home microneedling devices can actually worsen acne scars because they creates too much skin damage. If you are considering microneedling, I always recommend speaking to a board-certified dermatologist in order of avoid harming your skin any further.

Can microneedling worsen acne scars?

Many patients worry that the trauma caused to the skin during microneedling procedures can make acne scars worse. Thankfully, properly administered microneedling will not worsen the appearance of acne scars.

Do scars come back after microneedling?

Answer: Microneedling for Acne Scars

If you decide at any point to stop treatments, the scars will not come back. As far as maintenance goes, there is no regimen you have to follow. Some patients will do treatments once or twice a year or every few months after the initial series of treatments.

How do you make scars worse?

What Makes Scars Look Worse? | Biodermis.com

  1. Sun exposure. Direct sun exposure over long periods of time can cause hyperpigmentation in the scar tissue, causing it to appear darker in color. ...
  2. Re-injury. ...
  3. Wound infection. ...
  4. Vitamin E and other topical creams.

How do you flatten a keloid scar?

Treatments for keloid scars

Treatments that may help flatten a keloid scar include: steroid injections. applying steroid-impregnated tape for 12 hours a day. applying silicone gel sheeting for several months.

Why do my acne scars look worse some days?

The spots that linger after a pimple has healed are caused by inflammation that has disrupted the skin's natural healing process. "When your skin is opened up (like when you pop a pimple) and then closes back together, you can get abnormal pigmentation, texture, and tone that looks different from the rest of your skin.

Is microdermabrasion good for nose pores?

“Microdermabrasion tends to be best for oily and congested skin,” says Dr Kubicka, just make sure you don't have any active inflammation. Likewise, it works on “breakouts, blocked pores, dull complexions and sun damage,” adds Dr Kubicka, since the resurfacing action will help to lighten pigmentation such as sun spots.

Why are my pores filled with white stuff?

The white stuff that comes out of your pores like thin strings when you squeeze your nose is called a sebaceous filament. It's mostly made up of sebum (oil that your skin produces) and dead skin cells. This substance typically collects in pores around your nose and chin.

Why are my T zone pores so big?

Generally, the T-zone (aka the forehead and nose) is where people notice the biggest issues with pore size because the sebaceous glands in that region tend to be more prominent than those in other areas of the face. "Olive and darker skin tones tend to have larger pores and more sebum production," Franco adds.

Can microdermabrasion help acne scars?

Luckily microdermabrasion is a great option for helping to improve the appearance of acne scarring. During a Microdermabrasion facial, the therapist uses a handset to pass a fine jet of abrasive crystals over your skin; these crystals gently abrade away dead skin.